Physical Rehabilitation Medicine/Will My Hurt Knuckle Heal On Its Own

I fell and bent my middle finger way back about a month ago. It swelled for a day or so in the knuckle area.

I have not yet sought medical treatment because I thought it would it would eventually stop hurting. A month later, it still hurts slightly around the knuckle area.

Do you think I should seek medical treatment for this? Do these things really take this long to heal?

Thank you for your assistance.

AnswerSorry for the delay in my response. You could have sprained a ligament in which certain things can be done to rest the tissue and allow for healing. An exam from an orthopedic physician would be needed. I would recommend a certified hand surgeon if you have access to one. Check www.assh.org.

If it has steadily gotten better then you may be ok but if it never truly resolves then you should have it looked at. Ligaments take awhile to heal so 4 weeks might still be a little early.

Expertise

I can answer questions about both conservative and post-operative rehabilitation for UPPER extremity injuries. These include but are not limited to: fractures, tendon repairs, tendon transfers, nerve repairs, lacerations, tenolysis procedures, TFCC injuries, repetitive motion disorders, reconstructive procedures.
I have an advanced knowledge of UPPER extremity anatomy and industrial rehabilitation. I have extensive splinting skills for injuries to the upper extremity. Although not a physician or a surgeon I have worked closely with world renowned upper extremity specialists for over 10 years. I can give general information on what some of the most common upper extremity surgeries involve. I can reference those procedures as well.
PLEASE DON'T ASK ME QUESTIONS ABOUT ANYTHING OTHER THAN THE NECK, SHOULDER, ARM/HAND. I'M NOT QUALIFIED AND KNOW ABSOLUTELY ZERO ABOUT BACKS/HIPS/KNEES/ANKLES/ETC. THANK YOU!!!

Experience

10+ years working closely with orthopedic and hand surgeons and their patients. I have treated patients with small lacerations to major reconstructive procedures. My knowledge base includes both conservative and post-operative rehab protocols and care for upper extremity injuries. I have treated patients all the way from day 1 post-op to return-to-work status.

OrganizationsKentucky Occupational Therapy Association
American Society of Hand Therapy
National Nurses in Business Association
Roy Matheson and Associates